Getting an RX8 for college
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Getting an RX8 for college
Hey guys,
I know teenagers getting an RX8 is a beaten topic, but I just wanted your opinions. I'm 17 years old and I'm graduating high school in about a month, going to college next year, and I'm looking to buy a new car. My parents are paying for everything...car, gas, insurance (they won't let me work, they want me to focus on school =/ ). Anyways, I've been looking at the RX8 for years, practically since it came out and I figure now with the economy I should be able to get a new RX8 Sport model for around 22-23k-ish (or is this too unreasonable? I've been hearing of people getting 5k off sticker prices).
What worries me is high gas costs and not being able to handle a sports car at my age (and tbh I would feel spoiled getting it, idk I've wanted the RX8 for a long time and it just wouldn't feel right having it handed it to me, I want to work for it and earn it). But the thing is I am going to be keeping this car for at least 6 years (probabably more like 9-10), so my parents want me to get something nice that'll last me. So what do you guys think? I figure during the time that I own the car I'll mature and be able to handle it, and I consider myself to be pretty responsible for my age.
Other cars I'm considering other than the RX8 are the Mazdaspeed 3, Cooper S, and the new Camaro.
Any advice would be greatly appreciated
I know teenagers getting an RX8 is a beaten topic, but I just wanted your opinions. I'm 17 years old and I'm graduating high school in about a month, going to college next year, and I'm looking to buy a new car. My parents are paying for everything...car, gas, insurance (they won't let me work, they want me to focus on school =/ ). Anyways, I've been looking at the RX8 for years, practically since it came out and I figure now with the economy I should be able to get a new RX8 Sport model for around 22-23k-ish (or is this too unreasonable? I've been hearing of people getting 5k off sticker prices).
What worries me is high gas costs and not being able to handle a sports car at my age (and tbh I would feel spoiled getting it, idk I've wanted the RX8 for a long time and it just wouldn't feel right having it handed it to me, I want to work for it and earn it). But the thing is I am going to be keeping this car for at least 6 years (probabably more like 9-10), so my parents want me to get something nice that'll last me. So what do you guys think? I figure during the time that I own the car I'll mature and be able to handle it, and I consider myself to be pretty responsible for my age.
Other cars I'm considering other than the RX8 are the Mazdaspeed 3, Cooper S, and the new Camaro.
Any advice would be greatly appreciated
Registered User
Joined: May 2009
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honestly it all depends on how you think about it. a newer car and especially a sports car is not something that a normal person would give their kid. I was 16 when i first got my 87 rx7 turbo and my dad would always say, start out slow even though its a lot of HP for your first car it all depends on how you drive it. And even more difficult NO a/c power steering. Majority of people get in a accident within the first couple of months and you wouldn't want that with a new car so thats why. i didn't have any trouble though. If your really into cars, really love the car, then you'll be fine in my opinion. and judging by how i went from a old rx7, to a newer rx8, im sure you'll love this car
Hey guys,
I know teenagers getting an RX8 is a beaten topic, but I just wanted your opinions. I'm 17 years old and I'm graduating high school in about a month, going to college next year, and I'm looking to buy a new car. My parents are paying for everything...car, gas, insurance (they won't let me work, they want me to focus on school =/ ). Anyways, I've been looking at the RX8 for years, practically since it came out and I figure now with the economy I should be able to get a new RX8 Sport model for around 22-23k-ish (or is this too unreasonable? I've been hearing of people getting 5k off sticker prices).
What worries me is high gas costs and not being able to handle a sports car at my age (and tbh I would feel spoiled getting it, idk I've wanted the RX8 for a long time and it just wouldn't feel right having it handed it to me, I want to work for it and earn it). But the thing is I am going to be keeping this car for at least 6 years (probabably more like 9-10), so my parents want me to get something nice that'll last me. So what do you guys think? I figure during the time that I own the car I'll mature and be able to handle it, and I consider myself to be pretty responsible for my age.
Other cars I'm considering other than the RX8 are the Mazdaspeed 3, Cooper S, and the new Camaro.
Any advice would be greatly appreciated
I know teenagers getting an RX8 is a beaten topic, but I just wanted your opinions. I'm 17 years old and I'm graduating high school in about a month, going to college next year, and I'm looking to buy a new car. My parents are paying for everything...car, gas, insurance (they won't let me work, they want me to focus on school =/ ). Anyways, I've been looking at the RX8 for years, practically since it came out and I figure now with the economy I should be able to get a new RX8 Sport model for around 22-23k-ish (or is this too unreasonable? I've been hearing of people getting 5k off sticker prices).
What worries me is high gas costs and not being able to handle a sports car at my age (and tbh I would feel spoiled getting it, idk I've wanted the RX8 for a long time and it just wouldn't feel right having it handed it to me, I want to work for it and earn it). But the thing is I am going to be keeping this car for at least 6 years (probabably more like 9-10), so my parents want me to get something nice that'll last me. So what do you guys think? I figure during the time that I own the car I'll mature and be able to handle it, and I consider myself to be pretty responsible for my age.
Other cars I'm considering other than the RX8 are the Mazdaspeed 3, Cooper S, and the new Camaro.
Any advice would be greatly appreciated
A used 04-05 RX-8 are around $12-$15k so $22-$23k is a bit steep for a new one in my opinion, the 8's don't really hold their value too well unless you want the new face lifted one.
Driving an 8 in college will also attract alot of attention from chicks, ask me how I know.
:D
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 115
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From: Seoul, South Korea
I'm not one to flame anyone for having there parents buy them a vehicle. It's not any of my concern really. So if they are forking out the cash for you to get a new car, congrats. Focusing on school is more important anyways.
As for owning an RX8, its exactly not a cheap car to maintain as compared to a Civic or something. But it isn't outrageous either. You have to understand the gas mileage issue of course. But honestly, as long as you don't go ***** out every time you drive it, it shouldn't be too big of an issue. You also have to take into account that the engine burns oil by design and the harder you drive, the more oil you burn. Other than that, besides the regular scheduled maintenance, it's a great car. Its usually the folks that don't bother to maintain the car (i.e. checking oil levels regularly) that end up dealing with larger issues later on down the road.
Also, call me ****, but about 90% of the time, I let the car warm up before driving. If I don't have time to do that, I baby it until the engine reaches normal operating temps.
Seems like you know not to act like an idiot with the car, but it's usually once you get rowdy friends in the car with you, that bad things begin to happen. Just be smart about it and you should do fine.
As for the Mazdaspeed 3, I think it's a great car. Unfortunately, ever since I first experienced RWD in my MR-S, I'm spoiled by it. I doubt I'll go back to FWD again even though the car is bursting at the seams with power.
As for owning an RX8, its exactly not a cheap car to maintain as compared to a Civic or something. But it isn't outrageous either. You have to understand the gas mileage issue of course. But honestly, as long as you don't go ***** out every time you drive it, it shouldn't be too big of an issue. You also have to take into account that the engine burns oil by design and the harder you drive, the more oil you burn. Other than that, besides the regular scheduled maintenance, it's a great car. Its usually the folks that don't bother to maintain the car (i.e. checking oil levels regularly) that end up dealing with larger issues later on down the road.
Also, call me ****, but about 90% of the time, I let the car warm up before driving. If I don't have time to do that, I baby it until the engine reaches normal operating temps.
Seems like you know not to act like an idiot with the car, but it's usually once you get rowdy friends in the car with you, that bad things begin to happen. Just be smart about it and you should do fine.
As for the Mazdaspeed 3, I think it's a great car. Unfortunately, ever since I first experienced RWD in my MR-S, I'm spoiled by it. I doubt I'll go back to FWD again even though the car is bursting at the seams with power.
3-wheeler
Joined: Dec 2005
Posts: 2,734
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From: Phoenix
Honestly I'd have been scared to death to own my RX8 while I was in college. Mostly for the fact that I found very few people who respect other people's property while I was in school and as a result the car I did own got scratched, dented and messed with quite frequently.
Also unless you're living somewhere that's got a garage it's going to be parked outside constantly.
The best part of having a car in college is simply having the car. I'd probably have loved to have a little early 90's civic that ran well. Everything around campus is a tight fit from parking spaces etc.
In my opinion, you might be much happier running around with a smaller more inexpensive car that you won't cry over if it gets hit, banged, dented or scratched. When you're out of school is when you really want a new car and you can enjoy it more.
Also unless you're living somewhere that's got a garage it's going to be parked outside constantly.
The best part of having a car in college is simply having the car. I'd probably have loved to have a little early 90's civic that ran well. Everything around campus is a tight fit from parking spaces etc.
In my opinion, you might be much happier running around with a smaller more inexpensive car that you won't cry over if it gets hit, banged, dented or scratched. When you're out of school is when you really want a new car and you can enjoy it more.
:D
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 115
Likes: 0
From: Seoul, South Korea
Honestly I'd have been scared to death to own my RX8 while I was in college. Mostly for the fact that I found very few people who respect other people's property while I was in school and as a result the car I did own got scratched, dented and messed with quite frequently.
Also unless you're living somewhere that's got a garage it's going to be parked outside constantly.
The best part of having a car in college is simply having the car. I'd probably have loved to have a little early 90's civic that ran well. Everything around campus is a tight fit from parking spaces etc.
In my opinion, you might be much happier running around with a smaller more inexpensive car that you won't cry over if it gets hit, banged, dented or scratched. When you're out of school is when you really want a new car and you can enjoy it more.
Also unless you're living somewhere that's got a garage it's going to be parked outside constantly.
The best part of having a car in college is simply having the car. I'd probably have loved to have a little early 90's civic that ran well. Everything around campus is a tight fit from parking spaces etc.
In my opinion, you might be much happier running around with a smaller more inexpensive car that you won't cry over if it gets hit, banged, dented or scratched. When you're out of school is when you really want a new car and you can enjoy it more.
He makes a good point.
Don't RX-H8
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 106
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From: Lucedale/Oxford MS
I went through a similar situation when I got my 8. After my first year of college, my parents wanted to get me something newer/nicer (I had been driving an old beater cavalier). That was two years ago. As others have mentioned, I do get nervous about people messing with it and it getting scratched/dinged up, but other than that driving an 8 in college is pretty sweet. I feel quite fortunate as I'm sure you will. And yes the ladies love it
You seem to have a level head on your shoulders and as if you know what you're getting into, so I say go for it and enjoy
You seem to have a level head on your shoulders and as if you know what you're getting into, so I say go for it and enjoy
Can never say no to someone wanting to get a rotary
I drove a beast in college (79 Buick Regal) and it even got screwed with at times. That would be my biggest single fear, but lots of kids have nice cars in college, so just park beside them Thats what I always do in a crowded parking lot. I'll walk an extra 1/2 mile to avoid parking next to a car that someone obviously doesn't respect.
What color you looking at?
I drove a beast in college (79 Buick Regal) and it even got screwed with at times. That would be my biggest single fear, but lots of kids have nice cars in college, so just park beside them
Thats what I always do in a crowded parking lot. I'll walk an extra 1/2 mile to avoid parking next to a car that someone obviously doesn't respect. What color you looking at?
Where do you live? Where do you plan to attend College?
I say this because unless you live out West or SE, i wouldnt advise getting the RX-8. If you live in Midwest/N-East where there are harsh Winters and plenty of rain, you will need something better in those conditions that also gives you better piece of mind re: reliability. There are no garages on campus for freshman As a Frosh your car will likely be parked a good ways away from your dorm exposed to the elements and the rest of the student body. I just wouldnt trust either to tell you the truth.
Your parents sound well off, if i were you i would work out a deal w/ them, get something a bit toned down for your college tenure, and as a reward to getting good grades and graduating, you get something spectacular upon graduation. Then you can focus on the upkeep of that car. In college your car usually takes a back seat to studies, girls and the occasional party And regardless what some here say, young college girls dont give a **** about your car, its your game playa (unless u live in Orange Co)
I say this because unless you live out West or SE, i wouldnt advise getting the RX-8. If you live in Midwest/N-East where there are harsh Winters and plenty of rain, you will need something better in those conditions that also gives you better piece of mind re: reliability. There are no garages on campus for freshman
As a Frosh your car will likely be parked a good ways away from your dorm exposed to the elements and the rest of the student body. I just wouldnt trust either to tell you the truth. Your parents sound well off, if i were you i would work out a deal w/ them, get something a bit toned down for your college tenure, and as a reward to getting good grades and graduating, you get something spectacular upon graduation. Then you can focus on the upkeep of that car. In college your car usually takes a back seat to studies, girls and the occasional party
And regardless what some here say, young college girls dont give a **** about your car, its your game playa (unless u live in Orange Co)
Rotary Rambler
Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 69
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Get the 8 dude honestly... The handling is what you are gonna want if its one of your first sportier cars. And it will get you more attention from the ladies than the other one imho. I just bought an 8 and I start college in a few months, I had to work for almost 7 months 2 sometimes 3 jobs in order to buy it myself becuase my parents are not paying anything at all.. so If you can get it fo free go the **** for it man, you will NOT regret it. Just make sure you have comp insurance so if someone does something stupid (keying it) you will be covered.
Last edited by Burton; May 6, 2009 at 10:06 AM.
Registered User
Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 22
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From: Portsmouth, Va
I'm in college, just finished my first year. I'm going to basic training this summer. So the cash from the army will be enough for me to buy an rx8 in December, but I also have an old cavalier in the yard that I can drive. Anyway, if you're gonna get an rx8 make sure you have somewhere safe to park it on campus. Best bet would be to follow Jones' idea if you can manage it, seems like what I'm practically gonna do anyway.
mod edit
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 427
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From: Eugene, Oregon
Ok having a nice sports car in college doesn't sound like much fun. too many worries. Jumping in a nice roomy 4 door like the Speed 3 would be nice during early morning hangovers on your way to exams. Parking is always a problem for college students too; do you really want such a nice car to worry about?
If it were me, I would be all over the Camaro...but then again, I'm biased 
I'm going though college, currently, and have been driving my 8 since high school. So I have experience doing the college commuting thing and can confidently say not to get it. You will be much better off getting something that you can drive in bad weather, especially in the snow (big problem for me). I would also say something decent in gas....but since you aren't paying atm, it wont matter.
You should check out the EVO X. It is fast, better handling, and AWD. That should be good for college.
I'm going though college, currently, and have been driving my 8 since high school. So I have experience doing the college commuting thing and can confidently say not to get it. You will be much better off getting something that you can drive in bad weather, especially in the snow (big problem for me). I would also say something decent in gas....but since you aren't paying atm, it wont matter.
You should check out the EVO X. It is fast, better handling, and AWD. That should be good for college.
All kids should start with a beater of a car. (I had a hand me down Plymouth Acclaim)
Specially if you make any enemies at college, I would be totally worried, but thats me. I worried about my poor Sunfire in the day, only because it was the ONLY car I had and I needed it.
Specially if you make any enemies at college, I would be totally worried, but thats me. I worried about my poor Sunfire in the day, only because it was the ONLY car I had and I needed it.
Registered User
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 280
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From: Naperville, IL
Personally, Id go with a beater for college, and then get something nice afterward when you have the time and $ to take care of it.. although if your parents are buying you a car like that, you never really had $ issues anyway
Just be prepared to do a lot of learning on your car, keep up on regular maintenance, and remember that EVERY car is a money pit, especially the rx-8. The 8 might take more "time" to own then another choice, and more gas that's for sure. But it can certainly deliver more fun, more looks, more comments, then most choices (especially for the price of the 8).
Registered User
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 58
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get a beater!!!! or pay for your own car so you appreciate it. Teenagers shouldn't drive nice cars unless they pay for them.
So, as a girl, when you take a girl out and she says "oh, nice car (which she will!!! its an rx8..) how can you afford this?" it's not as impressive when you have to say your parents paid for it.
So, as a girl, when you take a girl out and she says "oh, nice car (which she will!!! its an rx8..) how can you afford this?" it's not as impressive when you have to say your parents paid for it.
